Definition: Reflection occurs when waves bounce off a surface because it cannot go through.
This type of wave often occurs in soundproof rooms.
Refraction:
Definition: The bending of a wave as it enters a new medium at an angle
Key Phrase: When a wave enters a medium at an angle, refraction occurs because one side of the wave moves more slowly than the other side
Examples: A wave breaking and crashing
Standing Wave:
A standing wave is a wave that appears to stay in one place. It does not seem to move through medium. A standing wave forms if only half a wavelength or a multiple of half a wavelength fits exactly into the length of a vibrating cord.
Ex: Plucking a guitar
Diffraction
Definition: This is the bending of waves as it moves around an obstacle or through narrow opening.
Key Phrase: A wave will diffract more the wave length is bigger or larger compared to the opening.
Example: The sound in a theater traveling throughout from the stage to the door.
Interference:
Definition: Occurs when two or more waves overlap and combine together
Constructive Interference:
Definition: Occurs when two or more waves combine to produce a wave with a larger displacement
Destructive Interference:
Definition: Occurs when two or more waves combine to produce a wave with a smaller displacement
17.3 Notes: Behavior of Waves
Reflection
Definition: Reflection occurs when waves bounce off a surface because it cannot go through.
This type of wave often occurs in soundproof rooms.
Refraction:
Definition: The bending of a wave as it enters a new medium at an angle
Key Phrase: When a wave enters a medium at an angle, refraction occurs because one side of the wave moves more slowly than the other side
Examples: A wave breaking and crashing
Standing Wave:
A standing wave is a wave that appears to stay in one place. It does not seem to move through medium. A standing wave forms if only half a wavelength or a multiple of half a wavelength fits exactly into the length of a vibrating cord.
Ex: Plucking a guitar
Diffraction
Definition: This is the bending of waves as it moves around an obstacle or through narrow opening.
Key Phrase: A wave will diffract more the wave length is bigger or larger compared to the opening.
Example: The sound in a theater traveling throughout from the stage to the door.
Interference:
Definition: Occurs when two or more waves overlap and combine together
Constructive Interference:
Definition: Occurs when two or more waves combine to produce a wave with a larger displacement
Destructive Interference:
Definition: Occurs when two or more waves combine to produce a wave with a smaller displacement